AFC Bournemouth visit St James’ Park to face former boss Eddie Howe’s Magpies in the third round of the cup, as both sides enter the competition at this stage.
At the time of the draw, Iraola rued his luck in getting such a tough opponent, away from home, but he knows his side must not focus on that and must focus on getting a result.
The boss also admitted they will seek to use their “mini-advantage” over their hosts, as Newcastle are also faced with a League Cup semifinal in midweek next week.
Asked about the tie, Iraola said: “I think in the cup especially in England there is no like seeded teams and this and it’s quite open the draw.
“The draws are very important in these competitions because at the end it’s the same value to beat a League Two club and one in our league, in our case Newcastle away.
(Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
“But we cannot change them. The only thing we can do is earn the right to be on the draw again, and maybe be a little bit more lucky this time.
“But it’s the requirements will be big. I think we have to play an incredible game if we want to go ahead.
“They also have even more difficult than us in the sense that they play another big game in three days in the Carabao Cup.
“So let’s try to use this kind of mini advantage we have. It’s true that we have to travel. They don’t have to travel.
“So it’s kind of a little bit levelled. We would prefer to play at home. But you have to try to give your best and let’s see if it’s enough.”
Justin Kluivert scored a hattrick in a 4-1 win in the Cherries’ last visit to Newcastle (Image: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
Iraola praised Howe’s side, as the Cherries boss looks to continue his good record against the Magpies.
“I think they haven’t changed in their main thing, that is they put a lot of rhythm to the games,” Iraola said on Newcastle.
“They are very good on transitions, very good on set plays. They are always an offensive threat. They start their games, especially at home, very high energy team.
“The first 10 minutes, every time you go to St. James’ Park are difficult. And you have to be ready for the challenge.
“Then obviously they’ve signed also new players. The strikers, they have Wissa, Woltemade, players that are very good and they are adding very good things to a squad that was already I think very, very, very good for past seasons.”
AFC Bournemouth visit Newcastle in the FA Cup third round on Saturday, January 10, kick off at 3pm.